before i leave...

I am so excited to share the next few months of my life with friends and family through this blog. I hope to inform you all of my journeys across the pond! In December 2009, I decided I needed to learn a little more about the world and life outside of the great state of Tennessee! So after a few google searches I found out about an organization called "Projects Abroad." You choose what area you want to volunteer in and then what country you would like to spend your time. I naturally wanted to do medical volunteering. In March 2010 I chose Ghana and sent in my application. I decided to leave in November and stay for 3 months. I heard back relatively quickly that I would be staying the town of Kumasi, Ghana.  I would hear other details of my trip in the months to follow. In April I got a passport. In June I got shots for Yellow fever and several other diseases I would like to avoid. :) In July I applied for a Visa. In August I received my flight itinerary! I will leave November 1, 2010 and return February 1, 2011. In September I started ordering a few special clothes to keep sun and bugs away, some ExOfficio gear, and lining up all the things I will need to take with me. In October, the media decided to give me a glimpse of what was to come. The "Amazing Race" for 2 Sundays in a row was in Ghana and just today Anthony Bourdain's "No Reservations" took place in Ghana. How perfect?!?!? Almost every friend I have told about this trip knows someone who lived, lives, or visited in Ghana, and I have only heard wonderful positive things! Also in October I received the location and information about my host family! I cannot wait to try new food, learn new customs, buy great things and meet new people!! I hope to update this blog as often as I have internet. Enjoy!